Experience the Tiny House

Downtown Las Vegas is delving into the tiny house movement, downsizing living quarters and maximizing party space. You can rent the Gold Spike’s Sugar Shack Tiny House and plant yourself in the middle of the Gold Spike Backyard’s 24/7 adult playground. The solar-powered 344-square-foot Traveler XL Tiny Home sleeps five and has an elevated loft, full kitchen, bathroom, dining areas and a working fireplace within a picket-fenced “front yard.” The backyard has a variety of oversized games, plus a show stage and fully stocked outdoor bar. Rates start at $250 per night Sunday through Thursday; and $500 on Friday and Saturday. Guests must be 21 and over.

Moving Art

“LOVE” in giant red steel letters is in the Waterfall Atrium at the Venetian. The sculptured word is a creation by artist Laura Kimpton and part of her Monumental Word Series. It measures 12 feet tall by 36 feet across, and each letter is stamped with a small bird pattern, symbolizing the freedom to follow your heart. This large-scale public art installation was part of last year’s Life Is Beautiful music and art festival downtown and will return to the festival this year Sept. 22 to 24. Visitor interaction with the art piece is welcome and a good photo op.

The Plaza Does Pickleball

The Plaza is Las Vegas’ only hotel with 12 dedicated pickleball courts, which are located on the resort’s updated rooftop pool deck. The singles or doubles paddle sport was born in 1965, combining elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis on a badminton-sized court.

Today it’s one of North America’s fastest-growing sports. In its first year, the Plaza held two tournaments. Courts for the easy-to-learn game are open to the public daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Day fees with unlimited play are $5 for visitors and free for hotel guests.